Build-out to include dedicated co-working space for accelerator teams and memberships for Memphis-area entrepreneurs.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (February 13, 2015) – Start Co. today announced an expansion to the Start Lab at 88 Union Ave., increasing its current footprint by 80 percent. The new build-out will include enhancements to the existing space, which will be transformed into an event space for the Memphis entrepreneurial and technology communities, but will also provide a designated co-working space for teams in this summer’s accelerator programming. The lease for the additional space was signed in early February and construction is expected to be completed in early April.

“This build-out will allow us to continue to refine and build our accelerator programs, while also allowing other groups to use the community center for the advancement of digital technologies and talent in Memphis,” said Eric Mathews, CEO and Founder of Start Co.

The new Start Lab has a total of 7,600 square feet and provides expanded space and amenities to Memphis-area entrepreneurs, including an outdoor patio to be utilized for events and networking opportunities. Memberships will be offered to the community area of the Start Lab and will allow members 24/7 access to the space.

The community event and training space will continue to be used for office hours, business development and investment strategy workshops. Additionally, accelerator alumni, technology user groups, and innovative organizations may make requests to use the space for meetings and events. The new co-working space, however, will be explicitly dedicated to accelerator participants for the building and developing of their products and businesses.

“We continue to focus on building creative density in Memphis’ downtown core and are excited that the Start Lab will provide improved functionality and additional resources to support the overall growth of technology startups in 2015 and beyond,” Mathews added.

The design and construction of the build-out is being overseen by Belz Architecture + Construction. The Assisi Foundation of Memphis, Inc., the Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation and the U.S. Small Business Administration Growth Accelerator Fund contributed funds for the Start Lab expansion, and ongoing Start Co. operations continue to be supported by its many local, regional and national partners, sponsors, funders and donors.

Applications for the 2015 Upstart, Seed Hatchery, and Sky High cohorts are open through March 1. Teams will receive $25,000 in seed investment, and the accelerators will again run simultaneously through the summer in Downtown Memphis beginning May 4. This allows participants to interact with the Downtown business community, including many mentors and partners from varying industry backgrounds. Entrepreneurs seeking to be a part of the 2015 accelerator programming can find details to apply at www.neverstop.co.